The July birthstone, ruby, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and enduring beauty. Revered for its vibrant red hue and exceptional durability, ruby has captivated civilizations for millennia, earning the moniker “King of Colored Stones.” This article delves into the fascinating world of ruby, exploring its geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and the enduring allure that makes it a treasured gemstone and a fitting emblem for those born in July.
History and Lore
Ruby’s history is interwoven with tales of power, passion, and protection. Its significance dates back to ancient times, with explicit mentions in the Bible and prominent roles in the jewelry and mythology of numerous cultures. Ancient Sanskrit texts refer to fine rubies as ratnaraj, translating to “king of precious stones,” highlighting its esteemed position in Indian culture. Warriors in India believed rubies offered protection in battle, while ancient Hindus offered the gem to the god Krishna, hoping for reincarnation as an emperor.
Across the Roman Empire, rubies were highly prized, and their trade routes extended along the North Silk Road as early as 200 B.C. Medieval Europeans attributed a range of benefits to the ruby, believing it bestowed health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. The gem’s association with life force and blood was prevalent, symbolizing vitality and energy. Even as recently as the 20th century, the American National Retail Jewelers Association solidified ruby’s place as the designated birthstone for July, continuing a tradition rooted in ancient beliefs. The gem is also traditionally given to celebrate 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, further cementing its association with enduring love and commitment.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide crystal. Its characteristic red color arises from the presence of trace amounts of chromium within the crystal structure; the more chromium present, the deeper and more intense the red hue. Interestingly, ruby and sapphire are both corundum, with color being the defining factor differentiating the two.
Historically, and continuing to this day, some of the finest rubies originate from Myanmar, specifically the Mogok area. This region, known for its weathered marbles and ancient Buddhist establishments, has been a source of exceptional rubies for over five centuries. Other significant sources include Thailand (Chantaburi and Battambang regions) and Afghanistan (Jegdalek mines). Sri Lanka has also been mining rubies since around 800 B.C.
The “pigeon’s blood” hue, a deep red with a hint of purple, is particularly prized by traders and represents the most valuable ruby color.
Gemological Properties
Ruby’s appeal extends beyond its color to its exceptional physical properties. It ranks a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamond, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear. This hardness contributes to its longevity and resistance to scratching.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide) |
| Color | Red (varying shades) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.778 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.97 - 4.05 |
The name “ruby” itself derives from the Latin word ruber, meaning red. The quality of a ruby is assessed based on its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most desirable rubies exhibit a vivid, saturated red color with minimal inclusions (internal flaws).
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, ruby has been imbued with profound symbolic meaning. Its association with blood led to beliefs in its power to protect against misfortune and danger. Some cultures believed the July birthstone possessed the power to cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger. Burmese warriors famously believed rubies rendered them invincible in battle.
Beyond protection and healing, ruby symbolizes love, passion, and romance. Its fiery red hue evokes feelings of energy, vitality, and courage. The gem is often associated with royalty and nobility, reflecting its historical connection to power and wealth. The enduring symbolism of ruby continues to resonate today, making it a meaningful gift and a cherished heirloom.
Care and Cleaning
Ruby’s exceptional hardness makes it a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, like all gemstones, it benefits from proper cleaning and maintenance to preserve its brilliance. Due to its durability, rubies are suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings worn daily.
Cleaning rubies can be done easily at home using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gem’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for rubies, but caution should be exercised if the ruby contains fractures or has been treated to enhance its clarity. Regular cleaning will help maintain the ruby’s vibrant color and sparkle.
Conclusion
Ruby, the July birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of colored gemstones. From its ancient origins as a symbol of power and protection to its modern-day association with love and passion, ruby continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional durability, vibrant color, and rich history make it a truly remarkable gem, worthy of its title as “King of Colored Stones.” For those born in July, or for anyone seeking a gemstone of enduring beauty and significance, the ruby offers a timeless and captivating choice.